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Photographer of the Month: Joel Sartore

“We have to do something about this” is a phrase often heard while in the company of Nebraskan photographer, Joel Sartore. A National Geographic photographer and passionate conservationist, Joel is not only notable for his charming sense of humor and mid-western work ethic, but also for the intense sense of responsibility he feels to preserve all things wild through his photography. He is an active member of the International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP), and has been a part of both the 2008 and 2009 WILD/ILCP calendars.

A journalism graduate from the University of Nebraska, Joel started his photographic career at The Wichita Eagle, and by the early nineties he had been recruited by National Geographic and today a fellow member of the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP). In addition to his delightful work on Americana, his keen interest in raising awareness for conservation has led him to cover issues ranging from land use and endangered species, to wildlife management and the demise of the American prairie.

Working both as a freelance and contract photographer, Joel’s images have graced over 20 stories in National Geographic Magazine. The hopeful outlook and remarkable wit he brings to his work is contagious, and his ability to find the silver lining in every challenge is an inspiration to those who are lucky to work with him.

Over the past two years, Joel has gone on voluntary “self-grounding” to stay home and support his wife, who has been waging a battle with breast cancer. With perennial optimism, Joel has taken this opportunity to reconnect with his three young children and with the American Midwest farmland he so loves.

Even in this challenging situation Joel has been able to find inspiration to continue shooting for conservation. He is now photographing zoo specimens to illustrate the demise of amphibians worldwide; an issue that requires immediate action to prevent the extinction of as many as 50% of all amphibian species worldwide.

Joel’s work has appeared in Audubon, Life, Newsweek, Sports Illustrated, Time and numerous book projects including the Day in the Life series. Joel and his work has also been the subject of several national television shows, including National Geographic’s Explorer and CBS This Morning. Sartore has been recognized for his work by the National Press Photographers Association, the Inland Daily Press Association, and the Pictures of the Year International contest.

Read more about Joel Sartore>>

Read more about the International League of Conservation Photographers>>

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